Principal, Business Development (Austin, TX)

Job Title: Principal, Business Development Location: Austin, TX Employment Type: Full-time About Us FGM Architects (FGMA) is an employee-owned architecture and interior design firm with a longstanding emphasis on service. Established in 1945, our work is guided by the goals of our clients, the context of each site, the environment that sustains it, and the communities it serves. We partner with clients across PK–12 Education, Higher Education, Municipal, Public Safety, Recreation, Federal, Faith-based, and Corporate sectors. Our teams work from offices in Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, Texas, and Virginia, collaborating across locations to deliver thoughtful, community-centered design solutions. Building communities is at the heart of what we do—and that includes our internal community. Joining FGMA is more than taking a job; it’s becoming part of a collaborative, supportive environment where we learn, grow, and succeed together. We teach, inspire, and serve one another every day. About the Role FGMA is seeking a relationship-driven Principal, Business Development to help expand our presence throughout Texas, with a primary focus on the PK–12 education market. In this role, you'll build trusted relationships with school district leaders, community stakeholders, and industry partners while identifying new opportunities that align with FGMA's strategic growth goals. You'll collaborate closely with Managing Directors, Practice Area Leadership, and Regional Marketing Managers to strengthen our business development pipeline, elevate FGMA's brand, and support long-term client relationships. We're looking for someone who understands the Texas education landscape and enjoys building meaningful partnerships. Candidates with business development experience, as well as former school district leaders or education professionals with strong relationship-building skills and established industry connections, are encouraged to apply. Key Responsibilities Develop and maintain relationships with school district leaders, education stakeholders, community partners, prospective clients, and industry contacts while supporting business development efforts across FGMA's practice areas. Identify, qualify, and pursue new business opportunities that align with FGMA's strategic growth goals, with a primary focus on the PK-12 market. Partner with Managing Directors, Practice Area Leadership, and Regional Marketing Managers to support business planning, client strategies, and pursuit planning. Research market trends, client needs, and industry developments to identify emerging opportunities and support FGMA's strategic growth initiatives. Represent FGMA at client meetings, interviews, conferences, networking events, and professional organizations to strengthen the firm's visibility and relationships. Collaborate with Marketing to support proposal strategy, pursuit materials, targeted campaigns, and firm positioning. Utilize FGMA's CRM platform (Vantagepoint) to track business development activities, maintain client information, and manage opportunity pipelines. Maintain a strong understanding of FGMA's services, project portfolio, and differentiators to effectively represent the firm and communicate its value to clients. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience. Minimum 8 – 10 years of experience in business development, client relationship management, educational leadership, or another client-facing leadership role. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with school districts, public sector organizations, or other key stakeholders. Excellent communication, presentation, networking, and relationship-building skills. Self-motivated with strong organizational, planning, and follow-through abilities. Ability to travel as needed for client meetings, conferences, and industry events. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with Texas school districts, educational organizations, architecture, engineering, construction, or other public-sector organizations. Existing relationships within the Texas PK-12 education community. Experience using CRM platforms such as Vantagepoint or similar systems. What We Offer Hybrid work schedule with the flexibility to work from home on Mondays and Fridays Flexible Fridays, with a 36-hour workweek Monday through Thursday and a half-day on Friday Eligibility for bonus programs tied to individual, team, or organizational goals Generous paid time off, including bereavement leave Eight weeks of paid parental leave for all parents Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance Employer-provided basic life and AD&D insurance Short- and long-term disability coverage 401(k) retirement plan with opportunity for employer contributions Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), with eligibility after six months of employment Ongoing learning and professional development opportunities A supportive, collaborative work environment that values community and growth Learn More About FGMA To learn more about our work, culture, and employee-owned structure, visit our website: www.fgmarchitects.com . Equal Opportunity Employer FGMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.